TOPIC 3

Hello peeps! 
In my previous entry, I have introduced what is CALL. As we all know, the technology has evolved over times, so did the CALL. Now, we will look into the progression of CALL, the functions, the advantages and also criticism. 

The Evolution of CALL

There are three phase in progression which are:-

Behaviouristic CALL (1960). It was used for Audio-Lingual method and the programmed instruction involves repetitive drill & practice. Through this practice, students can learn very quick because repetitive is a very efficient way to remember. Moreover, computer acts as a perfect pronunciation model since we can play the audio whenever we want (it does not involve any videos). It aimed to transfer textbooks and worksheets → computer-based application. So it is easy for the students to learn and do their work individually as long as they have the application in the computer.

Eg: The Stanford Project (1960) :

The students listen to the questions and type the answer. It can provide an immediate feedback and very efficient record keeping (paperless and no cassette). So, the students can learn outside the classroom and do the exercise over and over again.

Communicative CALL (1970-1980). It focused on the usage of language and care less on the perfect grammar. It allows students to generate ideas in their utterance. It develop the good usage of language and becomes natural. In this method computer acts as a Tutor, a stimulus and as a tool. Computer give explanations and guidance but does not judge the students/users. In addition, it is used to stimulate students in writing and critical thinking. Computer programs designed to train problem solving skills among user. The games were designated for many purposes including the concept of ESL (English as a Second Language). Students enjoy learning while playing. Furthermore, computer offers generic software for language learning (MS Word, MS Publisher, etc). 

Eg: Pronunciation Coach 

Students play the video repeatedly and learn to utter the words one by one. It is very helpful in pronouncing as it displayed the movement image of mouth when pronouncing the word. This software is cheap and widely available. Apart of that, it offers greater student involvement, authentic and entertaining.

Integrated CALL. This is the real world materials applied into CALL. Begin to use the CD-ROM to store large amounts of authentic media, it became popular with the development of high speed internet and hypermedia. What is hypermedia? It is the extension of hypertext (information) that can include texts, audio and graphical media (for both interactive & non-interactive)

Eg: media player, GIF, audio, picture.

Internet vs. CALL. 

It is the era of an accelerated technological progress where we no longer use computer with CRT technology and internet has become a necessity for everyone. CALL is also dominated by the internet to access information and also for variety purposes (online shopping, reading materials, entertainment, weather forecast etc.). In learning context, the role of English Language has become more and more important to all of us since it is widely use almost in every country (exceptional for Japan, China etc). In order to learn English, CALL offer many advantages for the user/students in learning through fun.